How to Grow Cranesbill Geraniums

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Cranesbill geraniums (Geranium spp.), also called hardy geraniums, are flowering perennials that earned their name because the long, slender seed heads look similar to a crane's beak. Unlike the zonal, annual geraniums that belong to the Pelargonium genus, cranesbills are true geraniums that thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 or 4 through 8, depending on the cultivar. These hardy, adaptable plants are great choices for gardeners wanting easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plants that reliably bloom for several weeks.

1

Choose a planting location that receives full sun to partial shade. Cranesbill geraniums prefer fertile, moist soils in sites with good drainage. These plants like a little afternoon shade in areas with hot summers.

2

Locate your cranesbill where it has plenty of room to spread. Depending on the variety, your plant will grow to 6 to 30 inches in height with similar spreads. Space multiple geraniums as far apart as the variety's maximum mature width.

3

Amend the soil with organic material such as compost before planting. This helps retain soil moisture as well as feeds your plant. Add perlite to the soil if you wish to improve drainage.

4

Add a light application of slow-release fertilizer to the planting area and water the soil well. Follow the label's instructions for new plantings.

5

Plant your cranesbill geranium so that the crown is even with the soil. Planting the crown more deeply can quickly cause crown rot.

6

Water your geraniums often enough during the first year of growth to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid excess moisture, however, because that can quickly lead to root rot. Most cransebill varieties are drought tolerant once they become established, so water only during extended drought situations once the plant matures.